Motor vehicle integrated carrier rack and storage system

ABSTRACT

An integrated carrier rack and storage system for vehicles is provided. Generally, the system includes a receiving unit, installed in a motor vehicle that receives a carrier bar device. The system further includes an immobilizing system attached carrier bar and various attachment units which facilitate in transportation and storage. The integrated carrier rack and storage system is user friendly and may be applied to any motor vehicle to carry an assortment of items and store them using the same system.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 15/045,142 filed Feb. 16, 2016, which is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 14/214,407 filed Mar. 14, 2014, now U.S.Pat. No. 9,290,132, which claims priority to U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 61/801,951 filed Mar. 15, 2013 and U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 61/803,101 filed Mar. 18, 2013, all of which are herebyincorporated by reference in their entireties.

FIELD

The subject matter described herein relates generally to carrier rackand storage systems for motor vehicles, and more particularly to carrierrack systems that are integrated into a motor vehicle—carrier rack andstorage systems that are designed to carry and store items such asbicycles, skis, snowboards, surfboards, wave boards, wheelchairs,scooters, luggage, fishing gear, accessories, and others.

BACKGROUND

Present carrier rack systems for motor vehicles, such as cars, trucks,vans, minivans, sports utility vehicles (SUV's), and motor homes,generally involve a system of multiple straps attached onto the vehicle,a system attached to a universal hitch, a system attached to a roof, ora system attached to a bumper. These systems are cumbersome, heavy, anddifficult to store at home or in the vehicle when the systems are not inuse. Additionally, these systems may not be adaptable to all types ofvehicles, and when some of these systems are attached, they often makeit difficult to access the trunk or doors. These systems are susceptibleto theft and may scratch and damage the vehicle when attached and used.

In the case of systems involving multiple straps, these systems arecomplicated to attach onto the vehicle and may loosen with use overtime. In the case of systems attached to the roof, these systems createwind resistance when the car is moving and are difficult to access. Forcarrier systems that are attached to bumpers, these systems damage thesensitive bumper mechanism and have limited supportability. For trailerhitch systems, the systems are heavy and difficult to attach, detach,and store.

Additionally, organization and storage space is important for peoplefrom all walks of life. Improved organization and storage saves timewhen preparing for activities. It saves space in a home garage,basement, storage garage or shed, closet, office, home, room or anyother place things are stored. It may also help prevent injuries whichcan occur from tripping, falling, dropping, knocking over unstableitems, or other accidental or unintentional actions. Likewise it maysave money because when items fall they may be individually harmed inthe form of dents, breaks, chips or other damage or may dent, break,chip, or damage items which they collide with such as motor vehicles.

Accordingly, an improved carrier rack and storage system for motorvehicles would be desirable.

SUMMARY

The present invention is directed to carrier rack and storage systemsfor motor vehicles, and more particularly to carrier rack and storagesystems that are integrated into motor vehicles at the time of vehiclemanufacture or after production (retrofitting).

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a carrier racksystem is integrated into a portion of a motor vehicle with a rear wall,such as a tailgate of a pickup truck, a trunk lid of a car, a rearlicense plate wall, or a rear door of a minivan or sports utilityvehicle, having an inside and outside. The system generally includes areceiving unit, having rear and forward ends, integrated into the rearwall, an immobilizing system attached to the receiving unit, and/or acarrier bar attached to the receiving unit. The receiving unit may bepositioned such that the rear end is directed toward the back of thevehicle and forms an engaging structure in the rear wall that can beaesthetically hidden from view with a cover or cap.

The carrier bar can generally be universal, meaning it can be attachedto any vehicle with a receiving unit and can have any attachments placedon the carrier bar to carry a variety of items. The carrier bar isgenerally lightweight, easily stored in the vehicle when not in use, andeasily attachable to the receiving unit when use is desired. When inuse, the carrier bar will not damage the paint on the vehicle. Also,supportability is improved with the carrier because it can be positionedat an optimum level on the vehicle, providing ample distance from theground when an item or storage pod is attached to the carrier bar andproviding less stress to a person's back when the person is loading theitem or storage pod onto the carrier bar. The invention is advantageousin that it provides a lightweight and easy to use carrier rack andstorage system that can be integrated into motor or other vehicles. Theinvention is further advantageous in that it will not damage or scratchthe vehicle. The invention is yet further advantageous in that itprovides a simplistic storage system in which all items for a particularactivity are kept together and may be easily taken along when going toan activity and stored when returning from the activity.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the receiving unitdescribed above is integrated into a portion of a vehicle having a sidewall, such as a side of a truck bed, a side door, a side of a trunk lid,or other side panel of a vehicle. Interior walls are also contemplated.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the receiving unitdescribed above is integrated into a portion of a motor vehicle having afront end, such as a front end of a bus, motor home, van, truck, SUV, orminivan.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention a storage system isprovided which allows a user to easily transport and store itemsassociated with a particular activity in a convenient compartment orcompartmentalized pod. This provides simplicity in storing commonly useditems for one activity, ease of transport, and ease of storage in anylocation necessary including in the home, office, garage, basement,closet, on a wall, or in or on virtually any other location desired.

Other systems, devices, methods, features and advantages of the subjectmatter described herein will be or will become apparent to one withskill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detaileddescription. It is intended that all such additional systems, devices,methods, features and advantages be included within this description, bewithin the scope of the subject matter described herein, and beprotected by the accompanying claims. In no way should the features ofthe example embodiments be construed as limiting the appended claims,absent express recitation of those features in the claims.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,752,302 by Anton et al., patented Jun. 22, 2004, ishereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The details of the subject matter set forth herein, both as to itsstructure and operation, may be apparent by study of the accompanyingfigures, in which like reference numerals refer to like parts. Thecomponents in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis insteadbeing placed upon illustrating the principles of the subject matter.Moreover, all illustrations are intended to convey concepts, whererelative sizes, shapes and other detailed attributes may be illustratedschematically rather than literally or precisely.

FIG. 1A shows a dis-assembled example of a transitional carrier bardevice in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 1B shows a fully assembled example of a transitional carrier bardevice in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 1C shows a fully assembled example of a transitional carrier bardevice in accordance with the present invention that ready for insertioninto a motor vehicle.

FIG. 1D shows a fully assembled example of a transitional carrier bardevice in accordance with the present invention that is inserted into areceiver device in the rear of a motor vehicle.

FIG. 1E shows a fully assembled example of a transitional carrier bardevice in accordance with the present invention that is inserted into areceiver device in the rear of a motor vehicle and is securely holdingand supporting a bicycle.

FIGS. 2A-2D are side and perspective views of an exemplary transitionalcarrier bar device in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 3A shows a view of a portion of design specific bar with notchesand locking mechanisms to engage and hold a cradle device in accordancewith the present invention.

FIG. 3B shows a view of a portion of Tbar2 including engagement tracksto engage interior structures of other members for collapsing orexpanding and a transitional carrier bar device locking in place.

FIG. 3C shows an angled end piece with an engagement piece for use inangled embodiments of a transitional carrier bar device in accordancewith the present invention.

FIG. 3D shows a bottom view of a Tbar1 with a square engagement piecehole for locking with a square engagement piece in accordance with thepresent invention.

FIG. 3E shows a cradle securing peg with a threaded interior and a holerecess for a cargo carrying peg in accordance with the presentinvention.

FIG. 4A shows a partially collapsed example of a transitional carrierbar device in accordance with the present invention with one cradledevice extended and one stored.

FIG. 4B shows a fully extended and locked example of a transitionalcarrier bar device in accordance with the present invention with onecradle device extended and one stored.

FIG. 4C shows an example of middle transitional carrier bar with angularlocking pieces in accordance with the present invention.

FIGS. 5A-D, G-L are views of some embodiments of a cradle device inaccordance with the present invention.

FIGS. 5E-F are component views of the upper and lower portions of cradledevice in accordance with the present invention.

FIGS. 6A-G are views of other embodiments of a cradle device inaccordance with the present invention.

FIG. 7A is a view of a push button release device in accordance with thepresent invention.

FIG. 7B is a view of another embodiment of a push button release devicein accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a view of a cargo peg securing location in accordance with thepresent invention.

FIGS. 9A-C are views of a wheelchair support extension in accordancewith the present invention when attached to a motor vehicle andsupporting a wheelchair.

FIGS. 9D-E are views of wheelchair support extension embodiments inaccordance with the present invention.

FIG. 10A is a view of a golf bag support device in accordance with thepresent invention.

FIGS. 10B-C are views of another embodiment of a golf bag support devicein accordance with the present invention with different dimensions andholding hooks.

FIG. 10D is a view of an example embodiment of a golf bag support devicein accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 10E is a view of an example embodiment of a “golf pod”—acombination golf bag support device and storage pod in accordance withthe present invention.

FIGS. 11A-C are views of an example embodiment of a board support devicein accordance with the present invention.

FIGS. 11D-F are views of an example embodiment of board support deviceexpansions in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 11G is a view of an example embodiment of a “surf pod”—acombination board support device and storage pod in accordance with thepresent invention.

FIGS. 11H-I are views of an example embodiment of a “surf pod”—acombination board support device and storage pod with attached deviceexpansions in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 11J-L are views of example embodiments of a collapsed surfboardstorage device in accordance with the present invention.

FIGS. 12A-C are views of example embodiments of “snow pods”—combinationski/snowboard support devices and storage pods in accordance with thepresent invention.

FIG. 13A is an interior view of an exemplary car emblem support devicein accordance with the present invention.

FIGS. 13B-D are exterior views of an exemplary car emblem support devicein accordance with the present invention in closed, open and disengaged,and open and engaged configurations respectively.

FIG. 14A is a view of the rear of a vehicle in accordance with thepresent invention.

FIG. 14B is a view of the rear of a vehicle with the emblem supportdevice open in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 14C is a view of the rear of a vehicle with the transitionalcarrier bar device inserted into the emblem support device in accordancewith the present invention.

FIG. 14D is a view of the rear of a vehicle with the transitionalcarrier bar device detached and telescopically collapsed in accordancewith the present invention.

FIG. 14E is a view of the rear of a vehicle with the cradle deviceattached to the transitional carrier bar device and the transitionalcarrier bar device attached into the emblem support device according tothe present invention.

FIG. 14F is a view of the rear of a vehicle with the cradle deviceholding a bicycle and attached to the transitional carrier bar deviceand the transitional carrier bar device attached into the emblem supportdevice according to the present invention.

FIGS. 15A-F are views of the secondary support structure attached insidethe trunk or rear of a vehicle in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before the present subject matter is described in detail, it is to beunderstood that this disclosure is not limited to the particularembodiments described, as such may, of course, vary. It is also to beunderstood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose ofdescribing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to belimiting, since the scope of the present disclosure will be limited onlyby the appended claims.

As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”,and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictatesotherwise.

The publications discussed herein are provided solely for theirdisclosure prior to the filing date of the present application. Nothingherein is to be construed as an admission that the present disclosure isnot entitled to antedate such publication by virtue of prior disclosure.Further, the dates of publication provided may be different from theactual publication dates which may need to be independently confirmed.

It should be noted that all features, elements, components, functions,and steps described with respect to any embodiment provided herein areintended to be freely combinable and substitutable with those from anyother embodiment. If a certain feature, element, component, function, orstep is described with respect to only one embodiment, then it should beunderstood that that feature, element, component, function, or step canbe used with every other embodiment described herein unless explicitlystated otherwise. This paragraph therefore serves as antecedent basisand written support for the introduction of claims, at any time, thatcombine features, elements, components, functions, and steps fromdifferent embodiments, or that substitute features, elements,components, functions, and steps from one embodiment with those ofanother, even if the following description does not explicitly state, ina particular instance, that such combinations or substitutions arepossible. It is explicitly acknowledged that express recitation of everypossible combination and substitution is overly burdensome, especiallygiven that the permissibility of each and every such combination andsubstitution will be readily recognized by those of ordinary skill inthe art.

Turning to FIG. 1A, a dis-assembled example of a transitional carrierbar device in accordance with the present invention is shown.

Dis-assembled carrier bar device 100 shows two cradle device 500's indesign specific bar 104. Distal end 102 of dis-assembled carrier bardevice 100 is shown at the opposite end of the figure from proximal end106 of the dis-assembled carrier bar device 100. Tbar2 110 inserts intodesign specific bar 104 and in some embodiments attachment is secured bypush button release device 700.

Turning to FIG. 1B, a fully assembled example of a transitional carrierbar device in accordance with the present invention is shown.

FIG. 1B is similar to FIG. 1A but not identical. In FIG. 1B, push buttonrelease device 700 is engaged with design specific bar 104. Tbar2 is amale type member at both ends which is engaged with Tbar1 112 usinganother push button release device 700. Tbar1 in turn has latch-hole 108and proximal end 106.

Turning to FIG. 1C, a fully assembled example of a transitional carrierbar device in accordance with the present invention that ready forinsertion into a motor vehicle is shown.

In FIG. 1C, Tbar2 110 is connected at ninety-degree angles(perpendicular) to Tbar1 112 and design specific bar 104. Cradle device500's are extended and ready to clasp, grasp, or otherwise hold itemssuch as horizontal bars or members. More on the mechanics of extendingcradle device 500's will be discussed below regarding FIG. 5.

Turning to FIG. 1D, a fully assembled example of a transitional carrierbar device in accordance with the present invention that is insertedinto a receiver device in the rear of a motor vehicle is shown.

In FIG. 1D, Tbar1 110 is inserted into receiver unit 1300 in the rear ofa vehicle and secured for transporting cargo.

Turning to FIG. 1E, a fully assembled example of a transitional carrierbar device in accordance with the present invention that is insertedinto a receiver device in the rear of a motor vehicle and is securelyholding and supporting a bicycle is shown.

In FIG. 1D, one cradle device 500 is shown supporting a bicycle while asecond cradle device 500 is extended but not supporting anything whiletransitional carrier bar device 100 is attached to the rear of avehicle.

Turning to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, a transitional carrier bar device 200is provided in order to allow for attachment or integration of cargospecific carrier bars 1250. Transitional carrier bar device 200 hasnumerous components in the example embodiment including proximal end106, Tbar1 112, Tbar2 110, design specific carrier bar 104, cradledevice 500, latch-hole 108 and distal end 102.

In the example embodiment proximal end 106 of transitional carrier bardevice 200 is attached to receiver 1300 at a height which allows forspecific cargo carrying with optimal ground clearance. Alternatively,transitional carrier bar device 200 may attach to traditional vehiclehitch systems.

Transitional carrier bar device 200 in some embodiments is a single bar.In alternative embodiments, such as the one portrayed, transitionalcarrier bar device 200 is expandable and collapsible by telescoping,folding, or other means. Expansion of transitional carrier bar device200 is provided for adequate height allowance for cargo specificrequirements, such as golf bags which are typically tall and may requirea higher carrying point in order to provide adequate ground clearanceduring transportation. In collapsed form, transitional carrier bardevice 200 is capable of storage within the vehicle trunk, rear or otherconvenient location in the vehicle. Transitional carrier bar device 200may in some embodiments have movable parts and the movable parts may betethered to one or multiple other movable or stationary parts inoperation and/or in storage.

Transitional carrier bar device 200 has a hollow interior in the exampleembodiment however it may also have a solid or semi-solid interior. Theinterior region may also be reinforced with struts, T-beams, I-beams orother reinforcing members. These structures generally provide additionalstructural support for the device and may be application specificdepending on the cargo to be supported by the device. The cross sectionof transitional carrier bar device may be square, oval, circular,polyhedron, or other shapes and may have modified edges, corners,angles, or semi-circular dimensions.

Transitional carrier bar device 200 in the example embodiment integratescradle 500 by a temporary attachment. As such, cradle 500 is detachablefrom transitional carrier bar device 200 as required by the user.Temporary attachment is generally easily detached and may involve only asingle or a few simple steps for detachment. Alternatively, cradle 500may be permanently or semi-permanently affixed transitional carrier bardevice 200. Examples of permanent affixation include welding or fusing.Permanent affixation may occur during initial manufacturing in creatinga single device. Examples of semi-permanent affixation may includemulti-step processes for detachment of transitional carrier bar device200 and cradle 500.

In the example embodiment transitional carrier bar device 200 has threeportions, Tbar1 112, Tbar2 110, and design specific bar 104. Aspreviously described, transitional carrier bar device 200 hastelescoping features in the example embodiment. Other embodiments existin which transitional carrier bar device 200 has folding or othercollapsing features. In some embodiments transitional carrier bar device200 is a single bar.

In the example embodiment Tbar1 112 is the proximal end 106 oftransitional carrier bar device 200 and inserts into receiver 1300 toform a connection. The connection is formed by insertion ofspring-loaded metal latch 1307 into latch-hole 108. Distal end of Tbar1112 allows for telescoping of Tbar2 110 in a first configuration and ina second configuration provides support for locking Tbar2 110 into acarrying configuration. Carrying configuration in some embodiments iscargo specific and as such one or more carrying configurations may bepossible.

In some embodiments rather than members or sections such as Tbar1 112,Tbar2 110 and design specific bar 104 attaching as shown in thedrawings, there may be additional parts that allow for stair-steppingcombinations of the above members or sections as necessary to elongatetransitional carrier bar device 100 to carry more cargo or storage pods.

Distal end of Tbar2 110 allows for telescoping of design specific bar104 in a first configuration and in a second configuration providessupport for locking design specific bar 104 into a carryingconfiguration. Carrying configuration is cargo specific and as such oneor more carrying configurations are possible. Design specific bar 104has one or more connection points which provide positions to lock cradle500 into place. As previously mentioned, other configurations arecontemplated which may not require telescoping and may have Tbar1 112,Tbar2 110, and design specific bar 104 in alternative configurationssuch as Design specific bar 104 being perpendicular to Tbar2 110 orothers. Tbar1 112, Tbar2 110, and Design specific bar 104 in the exampleembodiment can telescope within one another and into receiver 1300 inthe rear of vehicle.

Telescoping features as described above provide for Tbar1 112, Tbar2110, and design specific bar 104 to be collapsed into a smallerstructure. Other words exist which may describe telescoping includingnesting. In the example embodiment, Tbar1 112, Tbar2 110, and designspecific bar 104 are of such dimensions that one slides into another andthe combination slides into the third. Generally this means that Tbar1112 slides into Tbar2 110 and then then combination of Tbar1 112 andTbar2 110 slides into design specific bar 104. Other configurationsexist in which Tbar1 112 may slide over Tbar2 110 and then Tbar2 110 mayslide over design specific bar 104. Alternatively, combinations of eachconfiguration exist.

Various engagement or connection means also exist, which provide lockingstructures so that transitional carrier bar device 200 is locked into adesired configuration such as collapsed or fully expanded for supportingcargo. These may include pins, buttons, clasps, bars, pegs, or otherswith associated holes, grooves, slots, or others. Additional structuresmay also be used to control the engagement/disengagement orconnection/release of the elements including buttons, locks, keys,levers, or others. In some embodiments more than one structure may beused.

Dimensions of Tbar1 112, Tbar2 110, and design specific bar 104 arecontemplated that provide support to one or multiple types and/or shapesof cargo. In some embodiments the dimensions of one or more of Tbar1112, Tbar2 110, and/or design specific bar 104 may be shorter or longerand/or wider or thinner and in the embodiments the connection orengagement between portions of transitional carrier bar device 200 arecompatible with each other.

In the example embodiment, cradle 500 is attached to design specific bar104 of transitional carrier bar device 200. Cradle 500 may be attachedto the distal end 102 of transitional carrier bar 200 in someembodiments. In other embodiments, cradle 500 may be attached above orbelow transitional carrier bar 200. Cradle 500 may be attached so thatthe lengthwise orientation of transitional carrier bar device 200 isperpendicular to the lengthwise orientation of transitional carrier bardevice 200. Other embodiments exist with multiple cargo specific carrierbars 1250 in addition to cradle 500 are attached to each other and/ortransitional carrier bar device 200 at various appropriateconfigurations such as triangular, square, other polygons, and others.Some embodiments exist in which there may be more Tbar segments orfewer, as required for the specific type of cargo.

In some embodiments Tbar1 112, Tbar2 110 and design specific bar 104have cam-locking rods extending through their walls and engaging withcorresponding structures in the associated interior wall area of theadjoining segment. There are also corresponding slits, grooves, andother receiving structures which are used for engaging segments in someembodiments. Deeper holes may engage pins to lock segments in place inrelation to other segments which in some embodiments are at ninetydegree angles. Levers may pull the pins out to disengage in someembodiments.

In some embodiments design specific bar 104 is shorter than Tbar2 110and/or Tbar1 112 and has a male structure on its distal end which mayinsert into a female structure on the proximal end of other carrier barswhich may be specifically designed for a single type or class of cargo.

Push button release device 700 (further described below in thisapplication) to allow for interlocking of the pieces Tbar1 112, Tbar2110, and design specific carrier bar 104. Alternatively, otherstructures may be used to secure the connection between the piecesincluding locks, pins, latches, or others.

In some embodiments, plastic, Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE),Polyoxymethylene or other materials are used to aid sliding and snugnessproperties during telescoping and/or in locked positions between partsof transitional carrier bar device 200.

In some embodiments in which distal end 102 of transitional carrier bar200 is the terminus of all structures attached to the vehicle, asignaling device is attached at distal end 102 of transitional carrierbar device 200. Alternatively, in embodiments in which cradle 500 is theterminus of all structures attached to the vehicle, a signaling deviceis attached at distal end of cradle 500. This may include a passive redreflector and/or an active or illuminated red light reflector or othercolor as required by traffic laws. In the active or illuminated redlight reflector embodiments, the red light reflector is hard wired oralternatively wirelessly turned on and off. Additionally, an attachmentfor a real or digital license plate is provided in some embodiments.

In some embodiments external support for transitional carrier bar device200 is required and may be done so with external support rods whichextend to the rear panel. These external support rods may have engagingmechanisms in some embodiments and in other embodiments external supportrods may not have engaging mechanisms.

Turning to FIG. 3A a view of a portion of design specific bar withnotches and locking mechanisms to engage and hold a cradle device isshown.

In FIG. 3A cradle engagement notch 307s are provided in order to helpsecure cradle device 500s in place. Cradle securing mechanism 317s arealso provided and allow for an additional securing position for cradledevice 500s. In some embodiments cradle securing mechanism 317s may bephlanges that are located on the side of the bar and are slidable toengage and secure cradle device 500s or disengage as appropriate.

Turning to FIG. 3B a view of a portion of Tbar2 including engagementtracks to engage interior structures of other members for collapsing orexpanding and a transitional carrier bar device locking in place isshown.

Engagement tracks 309 may have chamfered edges to provide for ease ofuse. Engagement tracks 309 may be in appropriate configurations butgenerally engage members on the interior or exterior of adjoiningmembers in order to secure Tbar2 110 to Tbar1 112 and design specificbar 104s.

Turning to FIG. 3C, a view of an angled end piece with an engagementpiece for use in angled embodiments of a transitional carrier bar deviceis shown.

Angled end piece 311 may be attached in some embodiments to the end ofbar members of transitional carrier bar device in order to provideangled configurations for transitional carrier bar devices. Squareengagement piece 313 fits snugly into square engagement piece hole 315(as shown in the next figure) in order to maintain a lockedconfiguration.

Turning to FIG. 3D, a bottom view of a Tbar1 with a square engagementpiece hole for locking with a square engagement piece in accordance withthe present invention is shown.

In the example embodiment square engagement piece hole 315 is providedin Tbar1 112 in order to provide a location to secure square engagementpiece 313s as shown in the previous figure.

Turning to FIG. 3E, a cradle securing peg with a threaded interior and ahole recess for a cargo carrying peg in accordance with the presentinvention is shown.

Cradle securing peg 501 in the example embodiment has top hole 323 thatmay be operable to receive cargo securing peg attached to a particularpiece of cargo or carrying bar that fits into cradle 500s. In an exampleembodiment cargo securing peg 501 may fit into cargo peg receiving area1010 (as shown in FIG. 5E). Cradle securing peg 501 in the exampleembodiment also has a threaded interior 321 so as to provide engagementwith cradle securing screw 531 (as shown in FIG. 5G).

Turning to FIG. 4A, a partially collapsed example of a transitionalcarrier bar device in accordance with the present invention with onecradle device extended and one stored is shown.

Turning to FIG. 4B, a fully extended and locked example of atransitional carrier bar device in accordance with the present inventionwith one cradle device extended and one stored is shown. In the exampleembodiment square engagement piece 313 can be seen in square engagementpiece hole 315 and provides for angular configuration.

Turning to FIG. 4C, an example of middle transitional carrier bar withangular locking pieces in accordance with the present invention isshown.

Angled end piece 311 of Tbar2 110 is shown in addition to engagementtracks 309.

Turning now to FIG. 5A, a particular embodiment of cradle 500 is shown.In this embodiment, cradle 500 is provided to support horizontal bar ofbicycle and the structure is called a cradle device 500. In the exampleembodiment, horizontal bar of bicycle is parallel to the ground surfacewhen the bicycle is in a normal, upright position as shown in FIG. 14F.In other embodiments, horizontal bar of bicycle may not be parallel withthe ground surface but may still be substantially horizontal. In suchother embodiments, horizontal hole 1360 and the components whichsurround and support it will have an appropriate angle to match that ofthe substantially horizontal bar. In some embodiments a lockingmechanism may hold cradles in place so they will not disengage if heldupside-down.

In FIG. 5A, cradle device 500 is shown which is made of an upper andlower cradle portion. Upper cradle portion is made of two parts, anupper engaging part 1320 and upper support part 1310. Lower cradleportion is made of two parts, a lower engaging part 1330 and lowersupport part 1340. These elements may alternately be manufactured assingle piece combinations, such as an upper cradle and lower cradle insome embodiments. In the example embodiment, cradle device 500 is fixeddirectly to design specific bar 104. In alternative embodiments, cradledevice 500 is fixed directly to transitional carrier bar device 200. Inalternative embodiments, cradle device 500 may be collapsible/expandableinto carrier bar such as in FIGS. 5B, 5C, 5D, 5E where cradle device 500may be rotated ninety degrees and slip into design specific bar 104. Inthis configuration cradle device 500 is stored completely within designspecific bar 104 although in some embodiments some parts or portions ofcradle device 500 may be slightly exposed. In these embodiments cradledevice 500 is secured to design specific bar 104 by an expandable postthat extends from the bottom of cradle device 500 to the top surface ofdesign specific bar 104. This post may be located at cargo-peg securinglocation 1010 and be hollowed so as to be operable to receive a cargopeg as later described in this application.

In many embodiments lower support part 1340s are “V” shaped which helpsstabilization of supported cargo bars.

Dten units, metal phlanges, sliding metal retaining pins, or others areused to secure cradle in the rotated ninety degrees position describedabove.

In other embodiments, cradle 500 may be telescopically collapsible intodesign specific bar 104 or transitional carrier bar device 200. Multiplecradle devices 500 may also be used in alternative embodiments and fixedin multiple configurations as required by particular cargo dimensions.Multiple design specific bars 104 may be required in certain embodimentsand are compatible with each other.

Upper support part 1310 and lower support part 1340 are attached bywires 1350 and in other embodiments, straps. Various locking means maybe used in order to lock upper cradle portion and lower cradle portionin place and engage cargo in a stationary position. In the exampleembodiment wires 1350 is attached to a side of upper cradle portionwhich does not open with a bead, wire looped around holes in the metal,and fixed to itself. Alternatively, the two ends a single wire 1350 maybe attached to each other via a groove in the bottom of lower supportpart. Wires 1350 are flexible in some embodiments. In some embodimentsstraps are substituted for wires 1350. Straps are used in someembodiments with ratcheting mechanisms. In some embodiments multiplestraps may be used and may be configured as appropriate including arounda support post of cradle 500. Pin 1311 may be used to secure cradlelatch 1360 to upper support part 1310 in some embodiments.

A cradle latch 1360 at the top of upper cradle portion is used to securewires 1350 at the top surface of cradle 500. Cradle latch 1360 hasfingertip aides in some embodiments to assist with user grip.

Each of upper support part 1310 and lower support part 1340 has verticalmetal portions which hold upper engaging part 1320 and lower engagingpart 1330 in place respectively. In some embodiments upper engaging part1320 is fixed to upper support part 1310 and lower engaging part 1330 isfixed to lower support part 1340.

In some embodiments lower engagement part 1330 may have a variedconstruction such as a “V” shaped engagement support surface allowingfor better holding and reduced swaying, in addition to havingcargo-specific peg engagement.

Upper engaging part 1320 and lower engaging part 1330 in the exampleembodiment are made of rubber. In alternative embodiments they may bemade of plastic, metal, or other materials and may include a variety ofanti-slip coatings or gripping bumps, grooves or other surfaces. Upperengaging part 1320 and lower engaging part 1330 may be flexible in someembodiments in order to better provide grip on a horizontal bar and maybe compatible with horizontal bars with different diameters andcircumferences.

In the example embodiment, horizontal hole 1360 in cradle device 500 isparallel to the rear wall of the vehicle as shown in use in FIG. 14F.Cradle device 500 is locked in operational configuration by wires 1350.

In some embodiments manual bicycles of approximately twenty-five poundsare supported. In some embodiments electric bicycles of fifty toseventy-five pounds are supported. In some embodiments the horizontalbar of the bicycle needs to be two and a half feet above the ground inorder to provide a one foot clearance between the supported bicycle andthe ground. In some embodiments the bicycle midline needs to be morethan eight inches from the vehicle bumper in order to prevent thebicycle pedals from contacting the vehicle. In some embodiments atire-tether device is provided in order to prevent the bicycle wheel orwheels from turning during transportation. For storage purposes, ends ofthe tire-tether device may attach to each other to aid in simplifyingstorage.

Turning to FIG. 5B an exploded view of cradle 500 is shown.

Turning to FIG. 5C, an exploded view of another embodiment of cradle 500is shown. In the example embodiment cradle latch 1360 locks with latchsupport 1362 and wires 1350.

Turning to FIG. 5D, an example embodiment of cradle 500 is shown with acradle latch 1360 that faces upward while in a locked position.

Turning to FIG. 5E, lower support part 1340 of cradle device 500 isshown from different angles.

Turning to FIG. 5F, upper support part 1310 of cradle device 500 isshown from different angles.

Turning to FIG. 5G, an additional embodiment of a transitional carrierbar is shown partially disassembled. Cradle device 500s are capable ofbeing inserted into slots and secured with cradle securing screw 531sscrewed into cradle securing peg 501s.

Turning to FIG. 5H, a further embodiment of design specific bar 104 withattached cradle 500 is shown with a female type proximal attachment endand an open distal end which may allow for attachment of a second designspecific bar 104.

Turning to FIG. 5I, a further embodiment of design specific bar 104 witha male type push button assembly 700 attached to proximal end is shown.

Turning to FIG. 5J, an alternate perspective of FIG. 5C is shown withsee-through walls to show the interior of design specific bar 104.

Turning to FIG. 5K, a design specific bar 104 attached to anothersegment is shown.

Turning to FIG. 5L, a design specific bar 104 attached to anothersegment is shown in an angular configuration.

Turning to FIGS. 6A-G, views of other embodiments of a cradle device inaccordance with the present invention are shown.

In the embodiments shown cradle device 600 operates with two parallelcradle straps 601 attached to cradle base 603 rather than upper supportpart 1310, upper engaging part 1320, cradle latch 1360, and wire 1350 asin FIGS. 5A-E. Also provided are strap peg 605's which allow for strapsto be engaged and securely held in place, even when cargo is beingcarried.

As shown in FIG. 6A, cradle strap 601's may be folded when not in use toa compact shape in order to accommodate easier storage. Additionally,cradle base 603 may be swiveled on cradle support 607 and locked in aperpendicular or parallel configuration. Parallel being used for storageand perpendicular being used for support.

FIG. 6B shows cradle device 600 in a carrying configuration.

FIGS. 6C and 6D show alternative carrying configurations of cradledevice 600 that may be used for carrying particular cargo. In theseinstances, a regular “Z” or extended “Z” configuration are shown.

FIG. 6E shows an exploded view of a cradle device 600, particularlyshowing attachment and securing members for cradle supports 607. In theexample embodiment cradle securing peg 615 may be manufactured as partof cradle support 607 or may be separate. In embodiments where it isseparate, it attaches for example using a washer, to cradle support 607.Spring 619's are also provided in some embodiments to provide differentmechanical properties.

When moving from a perpendicular to parallel configuration as describedabove, Dten pegs 611 lock cradle 600 into place (as carrying or storingconfigurations respectively).

Turning to FIG. 7A, a push button release device 700 is provided inorder to allow easy engagement between carrier bar members 1140 such asbetween Tbar1 112, Tbar2 110, Design specific bar 104, or others. Pushbutton release device 700 in the example embodiment is shown as havingpush buttons 702 and 704 on either side of push button release device700. When push buttons 702 and 704 are pushed together, spring 1120 isdepressed and engagement pegs 1130 and 1132 are moved into a disengagedconfiguration. Engaged configuration exists in the example embodimentwhen engagement pegs 1130, 1132 are under normal outward pressure fromspring 1120 when push buttons 702, 704 are not engaged. A correspondingpassive or active structure, not shown in the FIG. 7A engages withengagement pegs 1130, 1132 to hold carrier bar members 1140 locked inplace.

In other embodiments, a key locking mechanism is used to lock carrierbar members 1140 in place and prevent the buttons 702, 704 from beingengaged and unlocking the spring 1120. A key locking mechanism of thistype may reside within carrier bar members 1140 and may be exposed whenneeded by exiting the front, rear, or sides of the carrier bar.

FIG. 7B is a view of another embodiment of a push button release devicein accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 7B shows a push button plug 701 for insertion into the ends ofmembers of transitional carrier bar.

In embodiments using push buttons, the buttons may be angular so thatthey only have to be pushed to release (and not to engage). This easesin initial engagement when a user may be lifting and supporting cargo ortransitional bars.

Turning to FIG. 8, a cargo-peg securing location 1000 is provided inorder to secure cargo with a fixed cargo-peg (not shown). Fixedcargo-peg is attached to cargo by welding, fusing, clamping, or otherattachment method. In the example embodiment fixed cargo-peg is attachedat the center of gravity of cargo. Fixed cargo-peg is constructed at astandardized size. In the example embodiment, fixed cargo peg is a pegof cylindrical dimensions however alternate dimensions may be usedincluding rectangular peg, square peg, octagonal peg, other polygonal,conical peg, or others. Additionally, fixed cargo peg may also havepass-throughs, holes, notches or secondary pegs so as to provideadditional securing structure, compatible with cargo-peg securinglocation 1000. Multiple cargo-pegs may be used in some embodiments.

Cargo-peg securing location 1000 is compatible with standard size fixedcargo-peg so as to receive fixed cargo-peg and secure it in a fixedposition. Securing in a fixed position means fixed cargo-peg would notbe able to easily rotate once securing position is engaged. In theexample embodiment cargo-peg securing location has a cylindricaldimensioned cargo-peg receiving area 1010 but this may alternately berectangular, square, octagonal, other polygonal conical, or others asappropriate to be compatible with cargo-peg.

Cargo-peg receiving area 1010 fits snugly around cargo-peg and preventsmovement of cargo-peg by rotations, lateral movements, and/or swaying.

Cargo-peg securing location 1000 may also have secondary pegs,pass-throughs, holes, or notches in order to provide additional securingstructure. These secondary pegs, pass-throughs, holes, or notches arecompatible with cargo-peg which has the corresponding structure forcompatibility.

Cargo-peg securing location 1000 may be located in carrier rack system 1in different appropriate locations. In some embodiments, cargo-pegsecuring location 1000 and cargo peg receiving area 1010 would belocated in cradle 500 and/or cradle device 500.

FIGS. 9A-C are views of a wheelchair support extension in accordancewith the present invention when attached to a motor vehicle andsupporting a wheelchair.

FIGS. 9D-E are views of wheelchair support extension embodiments inaccordance with the present invention.

FIGS. 9D-E show wheelchair specific design bar 901 with hole support903, locking latch 905, and hinge 907 which provides an axis of rotationfor upper member 909 to rotate open around. As shown in FIGS. 9A-C,wheelchair arms may be held in hole support 903s when a wheelchair isfolded up for transportation.

Turning to FIG. 10A, a view of a golf bag support device in accordancewith the present invention is shown.

Golf bag support device 3000 in the example embodiment shown is madegenerally of engagement members 3006, bag support 3010, straps 3008,hooks 3002, and clasps 3004.

Engagement members 3006 are generally made so as to be convenientlysupported by cradle 500's, especially in a dual cradle 500 setup wherethe cradles are generally about 5.5″ apart.

Bag support 3010 is generally a “V” or “U” shaped band of metal thatsupports the bag about six inches below its top.

Hook 3002 is located within bag support 3010 in the example embodimentand aids in supporting and immobilizing the bag in a position so as toengage strap 3008 around the bag.

In general, a golf bag (not shown) is made of a fairly soft, textilematerial. In some cases the top few inches of a golf bag are reinforcedby hard plastic. In many cases golf bags have handles for carrying aside of the bag. Golf bag support device 3000 is designed so that a golfbag handle may be placed on hook 3002. In some cases the bottom of thehard plastic reinforcement may rest directly on bag support 3010. Strap3008 is then wrapped around the soft textile portion of the bag andsecured by clasp 3004 on the other side of the bag. In some embodimentsclasp 3004 may be a ratcheting clasp that secures indentations of strap3008.

In some embodiments vertical stabilizing bars (not shown) may extend orswing down from a transitional carrier bar device in order to helpfurther immobilize a golf bag.

Golf bag support device 3000 generally holds the golf bag around two anda half feet from the bottom of the bag so that the bottom of the golfbag is held around one and a half feet above the ground to giveclearance. In some embodiments additional golf bag support device 3000'smay be attached at the end of an initial golf bag support device 3000.

In some embodiments of the invention soft and hard golf bags may beretrofitted or manufactured with dedicated connecting systems tointerface with a transitional bar device. These manufactures orretrofits may in some embodiments involve modifying the structurallystrong upper part of a soft golf bag so that connection with atransitional carrier bar device is simplistic with a hook, peg-in-hole,or other simplistic mechanism. The receiving or grasping mechanism onthe transitional carrier bar device that matches the one on the golf bagmay be in any appropriate location including the sides or rear of adesign specific carrier bar.

Typical golf bags with golf clubs inside weigh between twenty and fortypounds.

In some embodiments the handle of a golf bag may be manufactured orretrofitted with a hinge joint at the top of the handle that swings toninety degrees and may be held in a cradle or otherwise grasped andsupported by a transitional carrier bar device.

FIGS. 10B-C are views of another embodiment of a golf bag support devicein accordance with the present invention with different dimensions andholding hooks.

In FIGS. 10B-C strap 3008 is designed to wrap around the entire golfbag. Hooks 3002 are located outside straps 3008 rather than inside as inthe embodiment portrayed in FIG. 10A.

Turning to FIG. 10D, a view of an example embodiment of a golf bagsupport device in accordance with the present invention is shown.

In FIG. 10D design specific carrier bar 104 is shown as manufacturedwith engagement members 3006 securely embedded and therefore making afull-time golf bag holder.

FIG. 10E is a view of an example embodiment of a “golf pod”—acombination golf bag support device and storage pod in accordance withthe present invention.

In the example embodiment straps 3008 are provided for the top andbottom of a golf bag. Also provided is a storage pod 3204 with a handle3298 at its top and a collar attached to its skeleton 3299. In theexample embodiment storage pod 3204 has clear or see-through wallsalthough in some embodiments they may be opaque. The walls may be madeof any appropriate material including PTFE. The walls are held in placeby skeleton 3299 which may be made of any appropriate material includingplastic, stainless steel, or others. Storage pod in the exampleembodiment is vertically oriented and rectangular in nature withdimensions of about 5″ by 10″ by 2′. The storage pod may be used to holdany appropriate golf or other equipment including and not limited tohats, shoes, tees, balls, gloves, and others.

In some embodiments a dedicated design specific bar may includeengagement members which are fixed to the design specific bar in anyappropriate manner such as welding, screws, brackets, or others.

In some embodiments collar 3208 allows the “golf pod” to be easilyremoved and stored in a storage location such as a garage or otherlocation. The storage location may have a male member that inserts intothe collar and is permanently mounted in the storage location. Thisprovides simplicity and ease in removing and storing all golf relatedequipment at one time.

In some embodiments the storage pod may have ventilation slots, holes,or other related components. In some embodiments the storage pod mayhave lids with locking mechanisms that open with a hinge or slide on oroff. Locking mechanisms may also be provided in other embodiments at theclasp 3004's or in other locations to secure the golf bag when the owneris away.

FIGS. 11A-C are views of an example embodiment of a board support devicein accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 11A shows a typical embodiment (not to scale) of a beach carrierdevice for use with the transitional carrier bar devices disclosedherein. In its most basic form, the device is made of upper supports3102 and lower supports 3104 designed to support surfboards at the rearof a vehicle. Engagement member 3006 locks in to cradle 500 on top ofdesign specific bar 104.

Typical surfboards weigh around seven pounds are contemplated as typicalcargo for beach carrier device. Other typical cargo may be surf, wake,boogie and other boards that are less than seven-eight feet long andhave widths less than two feet.

Typically upper supports 3102 and lower supports 3104 are tubularmembers and have a generally “U” or “V” shape. Lower supports 3104typically descend two feet from engagement member 3006 and may ascendthe same distance after curving at the bottom.

In some embodiments upper and lower bars may be rotated about engagementmembers in order to better support boards. In such embodimentsappropriate locations may be fixed by locking upper and lower bars intoplace using pins or other appropriate means.

In some embodiments support rods in a horizontal or semi-horizontalorientation may be provided in order to engage and lock upper and lowermembers in place with relation to each other and prevent torsion effectsduring transportation or movement.

Strap 3008's are provided in addition to numerous strap hook 3010's inorder to assist in securing boards to the device. In some embodimentsstrap 3008 is elastic, in some embodiments it is rubber, in someembodiments it is other appropriate materials. In some embodiments strap3008 may be particular shaped with boards in mind while in someembodiments it may have no particular board shape in mind.

In some embodiments, in supplemental or replacing strap hook 3010's maybe a pointed end on the terminus of upper and lower support or anotherhooking mechanism to receive and secure strap 3008's. In theseembodiments strap 3008 has a hole or holes at the end or along thelength of the strap in order to engage the hook or pointed end. The holeor holes may be lined with metal and engage “V” shaped extensions ofupper and lower supports in a saw-tooth manner to assist in tighteningat different lengths and holding a supported board securely againstupper and/or lower support tubing.

In some embodiments extensions may be required for a design specific barto accommodate longer boards (such as those over seven feet in length)or cars with a high back end.

In some embodiments additional structures are provided such asadditional straps with securing ends to provide support and/or stabilityto surfboard fins.

In some embodiments design specific bar may have integrated engagementmember 3006's that are manufactured as part of design specific bars bywelding, screwing, clasping, or other securing means.

FIG. 11A also shows an example of a surfboard with holes drilled throughit and engagement peg 3106's attached to upper and lower supports andsupporting the surfboard at the holes. In this embodiment the holes inthe surfboard may be slidably opened or closed or may swing open orclosed at a hinge. These holes are operable to be closed when the boardis in use and open when transport of the board is necessary. In someembodiments the engagement pegs may be threaded and screwed into theboards. In some embodiments the pegs may extend through the board whenthe holes are open and a washer ring with a nut or other securing meansmay hold the board in place. The locking mechanism may be a pinmechanism that is operable to be released by pushing the pins in.

Turning to FIGS. 11D-F, views of example embodiments of board supportdevice expansions in accordance with the present invention are shown.

In the example embodiment lower support 3104 is used as an example andoperates and is configured as described above. In addition however, asecondary support 3016 may be attached to lower support 3104 usingengagement sleeve 3012. Engagement sleeve 3012 slides over the outer armof lower support 3104 and snugly secures secondary support 3016. In someembodiments an engagement pin 3014 may be used to further secure theconnection.

In some embodiments “tongue-in-groove” notches at the top and bottom ofthe engagement sleeve and/or lower support extending arm are provided toprevent rotating.

FIG. 11G is a view of an example embodiment of a “surf pod”—acombination board support device and storage pod in accordance with thepresent invention.

In the example embodiment, similar to the “golf pod” above, storage isprovided for beach or other gear. As above, ventilation may be providedin some embodiments. In some embodiments lockable lids may be providedwith associated hinges, clasps, and other members.

FIGS. 11H-I are views of an example embodiment of a “surf pod”—acombination board support device and storage pod with attached deviceexpansions in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 11J-L are views of example embodiments of a collapsed surfboardstorage device in accordance with the present invention.

In the example embodiments a design specific bar may have the engagementmembers that may be rotated ninety degrees so that a dedicated beach baris created. This dedicated beach bar could then be mounted or stored ona wall easily and out of the way. In some embodiments upper and lowerbars rotate in one direction, while in some embodiments upper and lowerbars may rotate in opposite direction (and lock into place).

Provided in these drawings are wall mount 1111s that may be permanentlyor semi-permanently attached to a wall and a collar may be used to slideon or off wall mount 1111s.

In some board or “beach pod” embodiments a cradle or portion of the barmay rotate so that a surfboard may be held vertically.

FIGS. 12A-C are views of example embodiments of “snow pods”—combinationski and/or snowboard support devices and storage pods in accordance withthe present invention.

In general, these pods are similar to those described above and includeupper support 3210's and lower support 3212's for ski's and/orsnowboards. In some embodiments lower support may be closed at itsbottom so that the bottom of the ski or snowboard rests within thecomponent.

In many embodiments upper support 3210 opens at one end using a hingeand then clamps shut after the ski's or snowboards have been secured orinserted into lower support 3212.

In some embodiments storage pod lid 3206 may have a lock or lockingmechanism that prevents unauthorized access and/or theft.

In the example embodiments shown in FIGS. 12A-B a collar 3208 allows forattachment to Tbar2 (vertical member) of the transitional carrierdevices as described previously. In the example embodiment shown in FIG.12C a design specific bar 104 is provided. Numerous variations of theseembodiments are contemplated.

In many embodiments two snowboards or sets of skis are supported on eachside of the “snow pod.” The pod itself is operable to store whatevergear a user may want to store. Typically this would include gloves,hats, mittens, helmets, beanies, sunglasses, visors, goggles, boots,shoes, or others. This helps avoid clutter within the vehicle and alsoprovides an alternative for moving snow into the car where it may meltand dampen the car interior. As provided above, in many embodiments thestorage pod 3204 may be ventilated.

In some embodiments of the invention the “snow pod” may have an internalskeleton 3202 that is integrated into the body of storage pod 3204. Insome embodiments the “snow pod” may have an external skeleton that islocated around storage pod 3204 but is not integrated as a part ofstorage pod 3204.

As a reference, 4.5 cubic feet are typically required to carry four skiboots and 2.4 cubic feet are required to carry four helmets. The “snowpod” may have dimensions of 2′×2′×2′ or 8 cubic feet in order toaccommodate these dimensions. Additionally, the weight of ski's withbindings is typically around seven pounds and ski boots is around eightpounds for a total of 15 pounds for one complete set and 60 pounds forfour sets. The weight of a snowboard with bindings is typically aroundtwelve pounds and snowboard boots are typically around five pounds for atotal of 17 pounds per set and 68 pounds per four sets.

Storage

As mentioned above for many of the embodiments of the device, ease andsimplicity of storage is a major improvement. As such, embodiments aredesigned to keep similar activity related objects together, such as snowequipment, golf equipment, beach equipment, and others described herein.In some embodiments of the invention the interior of storage pods may bepre-organized based on a particular activity. As such, there may bemoveable walls, floors, boxes, or other interior components orcontainers with particular item storage in mind.

As an example, one embodiment of the invention is a baseball pod. Abaseball pod may have elongated tubes for storing bats, boxes orcompartments with baseballs in mind, storage for mitts, storage forbatting gloves, sunflower seed pouch storage, cleat compartments, jerseyor other clothing compartments, or storage for other equipment ofcustomary or ancillary relation to the sport.

Storage pods contemplated in embodiments herein are not limited tosports or outdoor activities. In some embodiments a storage pod ofwrapping supplies such as wrapping paper, bows, tape, scissors, or otherequipment may be provided. In some embodiments tailgating equipment suchas tongs, can coolers, cup holders, condiment holders, or others may beprovided and in some embodiments even grills may be provided. Likewise,coolers are contemplated in some embodiments. Home shopping partysupplies may be stored in some specialized pods. In some embodimentscommercial pods such as contractor toolboxes may be provided.

Storage pods may be installed in any rooms or locations necessary andmay be of greatly varied size and construction. In some embodimentsstorage pods may open from the sides or bottom, may only have partialopenings, and may include drawers, buttons, or other members.

Storage pods of many varieties may be paired with racks of differingdimensions in order to support large or oblong cargo.

Turning to FIGS. 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D, car emblem support device 1301is shown. Car emblem support device 1301 in the example embodimentincludes locking mechanism 1311, spring loaded metal latch 1307,receiver unit 1300, remote 1313, and emblem 840. Locking mechanism 1311is provided to lock transitional carrier bar device 200 in place andprevent removal without an appropriate key and/or keyless remote 1313.

Car emblem support device 1301 is an embodiment of a receiving unit forcarrier system 1. In the example embodiment, car emblem support device1301 is hidden behind car emblem 1303 when car emblem 840 is in theclosed position.

Car emblem 840 is operable to open to reveal car emblem support device1301, as shown in FIGS. 13A-13D and in the example embodiment car emblem840 remains open when transitional carrier bar device 200 is engagedwith car emblem support device 1301, as transitional carrier bar device200 in the example embodiment is attached to the rear of vehicle in caremblem support device 1301. Car emblem 840 may also be removable in someembodiments. Car emblem 840 is opened in some embodiments manually viarotation but in other embodiments car emblem 840 may be opened byflipping or other operations and may be automatic and/or manuallyoperated with servomotors and/or remote key 1313.

Locking mechanism 1311 secures transitional carrier bar device 200 in afixed position. Locking mechanism 1311 engages spring loaded metal latch1307 in the example embodiment. The movement of locking mechanism 1311in some embodiments may be controlled manually by an operator moving themechanism from an unlocked position to a locked position. Alternatively,the movement of locking mechanism 1311 may be controlled automaticallyby a servo mechanism with a wireless or remote key 1313.

In the example embodiment, spring loaded metal latch 1307 is a bolt inthe shape of a cylinder with a circular cross-section. Alternatively,spring loaded metal latch 1307 may be a bolt which has numerous othercross-sectional profiles including oval, square, rectangle, pentagon,octagon, or any number of other shapes. The size of the bolt may also bethin and plate-like in some embodiments. Additionally, spring loadedmetal latch 1307 may not have a uniform cross section along its entirelength and may have grooves, holes, notches, ratchets, or others asrequired to lock transitional carrier bar 200 in place.

Although the example embodiment shows receiver 1300 as connecteddirectly to car emblem support device 1301, in some embodiments caremblem support device 1301 may be located in a position which spans anarea different from that shown in FIGS. 13A-13D. This may include thecircumference of the trunk lid. In some of these embodiments additionalsupport is used to engage opposing structures including fixed supportrods which may extend to car emblem support device 1301 and/or trunkhinges. Additional support structures may have a post in holeconstruction.

Turning to FIGS. 14A-F, car emblem support device 1301 is shown in usewith transitional carrier bar device 200. FIG. 14A shows the rear ofvehicle with car emblem 840 in a closed position. FIG. 14B shows therear of vehicle with car emblem 840 in an open position. FIG. 14C showstransitional carrier bar device 200 engaged in car emblem support device1301. FIG. 14D shows transitional carrier bar device 200 in a collapsedconfiguration. FIG. 14E shows transitional carrier bar device withattached cradle 500, portrayed here as cradle device 500. FIG. 14F showstransitional carrier bar device 200 with attached cradle device 500 andbicycle cargo in operational configuration.

Transitional carrier bar device 200 in the example embodiment has aproximal end 106 of a male type which inserts into receiver 1300 of caremblem support device 1301 which is of a female type. Alternatively,transitional carrier bar device may have a proximal female end whichreceives the male end of a connector from the rear of the vehicle.Connection of transitional carrier bar device 200 and receiver 1300 isachieved with a locking mechanism 1311 which operates opening andclosing of spring loaded metal latch 1307. In the example embodiment,after proximal end 106 of transitional carrier bar device 200 isinserted into receiver 1300 of car emblem support device 1301, springloaded metal latch 1307 is engaged by locking mechanism 1311 and passesinto and through latch-hole 108 to secure transitional carrier bardevice 200. Other connections may be substituted or supplemented inother embodiments where appropriate, such as pins, locks, and others.

Transitional carrier bar device 200 in some embodiments includesadditional elements such as vertical elements which help to alleviatesway or provide more support for cargo.

In the example embodiment, receiver 1300 is made of steel. However,alternative materials such as aluminum, titanium, or other composites,alloys, or pure metals may be used. Receiver 1300 is bolted in theexample embodiment but may alternatively be welded, fastened orotherwise attached or affixed to vehicle in such location andconfiguration as to receive proximal end 106 of transitional carrier bardevice 200.

Turning to FIGS. 15A through 15F, a secondary support structure 1500 isprovided to supply additional support for receiving unit 1300. In theexample embodiment secondary support structure 1500 is made of uppersupport structure 1504 and lower support structure 1508.

Secondary support structure 1500 may allow for transfer of some or allmechanical support for hollow load spreading element 1502 of receivingunit 1300 from one location to another. In an example embodiment, hollowload spreading element 1502 may be supported in the interior of wall 36above or below by secondary support structure 1500. Secondary supportstructure 1500 extends upward as upper support structure 1504 to thestable under surface of trunk lid 1506 and/or downward as lower supportstructure 1508 to the stable upper surface lid deck 1512. At itsterminus, upper support structure 1504 may fit into or rest against aninstalled terminal installation (not shown) and lower support structure1508 may fit into or rest against an installed terminal installation1510.

Terminal installation 1510 may be a plate which lower support structure1508 rests against. Alternately, terminal installation 1510 may be aplate with holes, grooves or notches into which lower support structure1508 fits snugly. Holes, grooves or notches may be made of the samematerial as plate or may be made of a different material. Alternately,holes, grooves or notches may be coated, covered, or otherwise provideseparation between lower support structure 1508 and terminalinstallation 1510 in a closed position by use of another material suchas rubber. Alternately, terminal installation 1510 may be a cup typestructure that lower support structure 1508 fits inside. In the exampleembodiment, terminal installation 1510 is affixed to lid deck 1512 byscrews but alternative fixations may be possible including brackets orothers. For installations with a greater distance between receiving unit1300 and trunk lid 1506, a similar terminal installation may be providedon the underside of trunk lid 1506 that may or may not be identical insize to terminal installation 1510.

FIG. 15F shows how a receiving unit may be oriented within the rear of apickup truck vehicle.

Various horizontal and vertical reinforcing plates are used in variousembodiments to provide additional support to the various portions of theinvention as described above. In some embodiments these reinforcingplates are constructed of steel or other strong metals. Support in someembodiments requires engagement of the rear fascia of the vehicle andits various surfaces.

In various embodiments of the invention additional support may beprovided against the surface which is providing the main support for thetransitional carrier bar using additional components such as extensionsof members or associated components with rubber or other “feet” so as toprevent damage to the surface.

In some embodiments transitional carrier bar device 200 and/or receivingunit 1300 have strategic breaking points, designed specifically tomechanically fail when undergoing massive mechanical stresses such asduring a motor vehicle accident. This design helps to alleviate dangerin some cases.

Transitional carrier bar device 200 in some embodiments is lightweightso that it does not contribute significantly to the weight of thevehicle. As such, it may generally be easily deployed by normal users.

In various embodiments different securing pieces or mechanisms may beused to provide additional securing ability to male-female orfemale-male connections such as pins, spring-pins, or others and may bemanually operated or automatically operated with a remote.

In some embodiments locking mechanisms may be rotary locks such thatpegs or other engaging mechanisms extend out of locking holes when auser rotates a lock in one direction (such as clockwise) and revert intolocking holes when a user rotates a lock in the opposite direction (suchas counter-clockwise). These are occasionally referred to as twist andlock mechanisms.

In some embodiments, the receiving unit may also attach to or extendfrom anywhere on the back, side, or front of the vehicle. This includeslocations such as under a rear air foil, as part of the fascia oftenhousing the light extending over a license plate area, under the fasciaover a license plate area, from behind a license plate, along a rearpanel just above the bumper, under a rear airfoil, from a side door,from a front grill, or others.

Concepts of the invention as described above can be used for cargospecific applications and/or general cargo requirements in variousembodiments. Examples of cargo may include and are not limited to:bicycles, tricycles, unicycles, and other cycles with or without motors;wheelchairs; golf clubs; grocery/shopping bags; suitcases and otherluggage; skis/poles; furniture; fishing poles and tackle; boots, shoesand other footwear; snowboards, surfboards, skateboards, wakeboards,skimboards, bodyboards, and other boards; coolers; barbecues and othertailgating equipment; signs/banners; strollers, carriages, and otherchild or baby transportation devices; boxes; storage systems includingtoolboxes, hobby boxes, sports storage boxes for balls or the like,miscellaneous storage, or other storage; and various other cargo. Insome embodiments cargo may weigh between two-hundred and three hundredpounds and in other embodiments lighter and/or heavier cargo may besupported.

Concepts of the invention as described above are applicable inembodiments including motorized and non-motorized vehicles. Conceptswhich apply or refer to a vehicular bumper above generally apply toembodiments and locations of a vehicle where a vehicular bumper hastraditionally and is commonly understood to exist. In vehicles in whichthe bumper may be in non-traditional locations such as at the top of therear of the vehicle or other locations, the commonly understood bumperlocation is applicable to the embodiments above.

Concepts of the invention as described above can be integrated into thefront of a vehicle, such as the front grill of a vehicle. Vehicles mayinclude cars, trucks, three-wheel vehicles, motorcycles, recreationalvehicles, buses, motor homes, vans, minivans, sport utility vehicles,carriages, trailers, and other vehicles. And, the concepts of theinvention as described above can also be integrated into the side of avehicle, such as a side of a truck bed, a side door, or a side of atrunk lid.

In many embodiments engaging pieces and mechanisms may have chamferededges to ease engagement.

While embodiments of the present invention have been shown anddescribed, various modifications may be made without departing from thespirit and scope of the present invention, and all such modificationsand equivalents are intended to be covered.

In many instances entities are described herein as being coupled toother entities. It should be understood that the terms “coupled” and“connected” (or any of their forms) are used interchangeably herein and,in both cases, are generic to the direct coupling of two entities(without any non-negligible (e.g., parasitic) intervening entities) andthe indirect coupling of two entities (with one or more non-negligibleintervening entities). Where entities are shown as being directlycoupled together, or described as coupled together without descriptionof any intervening entity, it should be understood that those entitiescan be indirectly coupled together as well unless the context clearlydictates otherwise.

While the embodiments are susceptible to various modifications andalternative forms, specific examples thereof have been shown in thedrawings and are herein described in detail. It should be understood,however, that these embodiments are not to be limited to the particularform disclosed, but to the contrary, these embodiments are to cover allmodifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spiritof the disclosure. Furthermore, any features, functions, steps, orelements of the embodiments may be recited in or added to the claims, aswell as negative limitations that define the inventive scope of theclaims by features, functions, steps, or elements that are not withinthat scope.

What is claimed is:
 1. A unified carrier rack and storage system for avehicle comprising: a receiver unit installed in the rear of thevehicle; a transitional carrier bar, having distal and proximal ends,wherein the proximal end is operable to engage the receiver unit andprovide immobilization for cargo; a cargo carrier bar operable to engagetransitional carrier bar near the distal end of transitional carrierbar, wherein cargo carrier bar is further operable to engage andimmobilize cargo.
 2. The unified carrier rack and storage system ofclaim 1, further comprising: a support structure within the rear of thevehicle wherein the support structure provides additional support forreceiver unit.
 3. The unified carrier rack and storage system of claim1, further comprising: a standardized peg system, wherein thestandardized peg system is operable to engage carrier bar system.
 4. Theunified carrier rack and storage system of claim 1, further comprising:a cradle system operable to support a bar of the cargo.
 5. The unifiedcarrier rack and storage system of claim 1, further comprising: a lockand key system operable to provide security for the receiver unit whenengaged with the transitional carrier bar.
 6. The unified carrier rackand storage system of claim 1, further comprising: a storage pod forstoring items associated with a particular activity, operable to keepthe associated items together after transportation using the cargocarrier bar.
 7. A method of using a unified carrier rack and storagesystem to secure cargo comprising: providing a receiver unit installedin the rear of the vehicle; providing a transitional carrier bar, havingdistal and proximal ends, wherein the proximal end is operable to engagethe receiver unit and provide immobilization for cargo; providing acarrier bar operable to engage transitional carrier bar near the distalend of transitional carrier bar, wherein carrier bar is further operableto engage and immobilize cargo.
 8. The method of using the unifiedcarrier rack and storage system of claim 7, further comprising:providing a support structure within the rear of the vehicle wherein thesupport structure provides additional support for receiver unit.
 9. Themethod of using the unified carrier rack and storage system of claim 7,further comprising: providing a standardized peg system, wherein thestandardized peg system is operable to engage carrier bar system. 10.The method of using the unified carrier rack and storage system of claim7, further comprising: providing a cradle system operable to support abar of the cargo.
 11. The method of using the unified carrier rack andstorage system of claim 7, further comprising: providing a lock and keysystem operable to provide security for the receiver unit when engagedwith the transitional carrier bar.
 12. The method of using the unifiedcarrier rack and storage system of claim 7, further comprising: astorage pod for storing items associated with a particular activity,operable to keep the associated items together after transportationusing the cargo carrier bar.
 13. A unified carrier rack and storagedevice for a vehicle comprising: a receiver unit installed in the rearof the vehicle; a transitional carrier bar, having distal and proximalends, wherein the proximal end is operable to engage the receiver unitand provide immobilization for cargo; a carrier bar operable to engagetransitional carrier bar near the distal end of transitional carrierbar, wherein carrier bar is further operable to engage and immobilizecargo.
 14. The unified carrier rack and storage device of claim 13,further comprising: a support device within the rear of the vehiclewherein the support device provides additional support for receiverunit.
 15. The unified carrier rack and storage device of claim 13,further comprising: a standardized peg device, wherein the standardizedpeg device is operable to engage carrier bar device.
 16. The unifiedcarrier rack and storage device of claim 13, further comprising: acradle device operable to support a bar of the cargo.
 17. The unifiedcarrier rack and storage device of claim 13, further comprising: a lockand key device operable to provide security for the receiver unit whenengaged with the transitional carrier bar.
 18. The unified carrier rackand storage device of claim 13, further comprising: a storage pod forstoring items associated with a particular activity, operable to keepthe associated items together after transportation using the cargocarrier bar.